It can be a real struggle trying to push through the day when you’re stuck in a low-energy rut — and if you’re anything like us, all the coffee in the world isn’t going to keep you from being grouchy, slow, and less efficient. Rather than reaching for a third cup of coffee, here are some natural ways to boost your energy.
Stay Hydrated
Fatigue can be one of the early signs of dehydration. If you’re feeling sluggish, reach for a glass or two of water — especially if you’ve spent the morning downing coffee. Caffeine can act as a diuretic, meaning it will push water out of your body and cause more frequent urination.
A great idea is to carry a reusable water bottle around with you. It’ll encourage you to take sips throughout the day to ensure your body is hydrated.
Get Some Sunshine
A few minutes in the sun can be a great energy booster. Not only will you get some vitamin D, but it can also help combat seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression that corresponds to changes in the season.
Spending a few minutes in the sun can increase your body’s production of serotonin, a mood-boosting hormone. If you find yourself particularly drained in the winter months, make the time to get outdoors for a few minutes during the day.
Avoid Carb-Heavy Meals
You know that post-Thanksgiving sluggishness you experience? Well, it can happen any time you eat a large meal, particularly when it is loaded with simple carbohydrates.
Don’t get us wrong, we love carbs and embrace them as an important part of any diet. But consuming a carb-heavy meal during the day can cause your blood sugar levels to spike. You’ll end up with a short-lived energy boost that will quickly be followed by an energy crash.
Instead, eat small, frequent meals that incorporate lower-glycemic or complex carbs, such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, and whole wheat breads.
Exercise
But wait, won’t exercising tire my body out even more? While you may feel drained after a workout, incorporating physical activity will ultimately help improve your energy levels.
Have you ever spent the day sitting on the couch and felt absolutely drained? Well, how did you feel when you got up and started moving around? You probably felt more energized.
Think about it: when you start moving, your body needs energy to do that. Your body will step up to the challenge to create that energy.
So before you down your fourth espresso or reach for that sugar-laden energy drink, try some of these tips. Of course, if you feel like you’re really struggling to stay energized throughout the day, we recommend speaking with your healthcare provider.
